Pumpkin-carving chef hones 20 years’ talent
“Seeing the joy on people’s faces” is what has spurred Wahoo Grill chef and co-owner Alfred Konrad to carve out decorative Hallowe’en pumpkins for more than 20 years.
His meticulously designed creations, along with those of his staff, are on display for all to see at the St George establishment in the run-up to Hallowe’en.
The Austrian chef carved out his first pumpkin when he was working for the St George’s Club more than 20 years ago and he took it to the next level when he bought a special tool kit from the States.
Each year since he has honed his skills and says tourists return to his restaurant especially to see what he has created.
Mr Konrad told The Royal Gazette: “The first one was at the St George’s Club. We didn’t celebrate Hallowe’en like Americans and at that time: not too many Bermudians celebrated with pumpkins either — they had other traditions.
“In the very early stages I found some different tools in the States to cut the pumpkins. I brought them back and started carving — they have little saws and scrapers. They are relatively safe — my children have used them – but you do need a little cutting skills.
“I enjoy doing it, but I am just so busy at the moment, the staff are getting more involved. Last year I was so surprised as I was away and a Bermudian guy did it, Richard Burchall. I didn’t even know he had those talents. He made some beautiful Nordic scenes like the octopus.”
This year Mr Konrad carved out cat and spider designs, while his chefs have concocted their own creepy creations.
Asked what kept him carving, Mr Konrad said: “It’s the joy on people’s faces seeing them when they are up in the restaurant.
“I have people from the St George’s Club who remember me from 20 years ago and when they come from the US, they come here to look for the pumpkins. At one stage I was done with it, but I had to keep doing it because so many people come and look at them.”
And once Chef Alfred is done with the carving, that which is not used goes towards cooking pumpkin pie, pumpkin soup and pumpkin seed snacks.
